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IFC, Sony to Boost Investment in Africa’s Film, Music, Sports Industries

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234 Films

By Adedapo Adesanya

The International Finance Corporation (IFC) and Sony Group Corporation have signed a cooperation agreement to identify investment opportunities in companies in Africa’s billion-dollar creative industries.

Under this agreement announced on Thursday, IFC and Sony will identify investment opportunities, with a particular focus on seed and early-stage start-ups in order to support new economic opportunities and create jobs.

Priority sectors for cooperation will include film, music, animation studios, post-production services, fashion, sports, and technology and platforms supporting the creative ecosystem.

Africa’s creative industries generate $4.2 billion annually but have a limited share in the global market, comprising only 2.9 per cent of creative goods exports and less than 1 per cent of Africa’s GDP. However, the continent’s digital economy is projected to grow six-fold to over $700 billion by 2050, with Africa’s film and audiovisual sectors alone having the potential to create 20 million jobs and $20 billion in annual revenue.

Both IFC and Sony say this significant, untapped potential is a route for boosting economic growth and improving employment opportunities for young people and women. The partnership will leverage Sony’s expertise and reach in the creative sector with IFC’s long-standing expertise in investing in private sector development in Africa and digital technologies.

Speaking on the collaboration with Sony, IFC Managing Director, Mr Makhtar Diop said it is aimed at generating value for businesses in Africa’s creative industry.

“This partnership will harness IFC’s expertise in emerging markets and our extensive investments in the digital landscape. Sony’s exceptional track record as a leading global player in entertainment, media, and technology positions us well to contribute to the economic growth of the creative sector.”

“Through the partnership agreement with IFC, we hope to accelerate the growth of the African entertainment industry and contribute to the progress and development of the region by providing opportunities for collaboration with the entertainment businesses within the Sony Group,” said Mr Toshimoto Mitomo, Executive Vice President, Sony Group.

Recently, IFC made its first investment in the creative industries in Africa, with a $3.4 million equity investment into Côte d’Ivoire-based ANKA. The funding will allow ANKA, an online sales platform for African creators and merchants, to scale its operations and onboard about 100,000 additional artisans from across Africa by 2030.

Adedapo Adesanya is a journalist, polymath, and connoisseur of everything art. When he is not writing, he has his nose buried in one of the many books or articles he has bookmarked or simply listening to good music with a bottle of beer or wine. He supports the greatest club in the world, Manchester United F.C.

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Holiday Preview: Festive Season Programmes to Watch Out for on GOtv

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Imagine it’s Christmas. The aroma of jollof rice wafts through the air, kids run around in matching outfits, and the TV is tuned to GOtv Channel 3, M-Net Movies 4. But this isn’t just any Christmas morning—this one’s about to go wild. A mischievous cat wreaking havoc,  Matilda bending spoons with her mind, and Babe, the pig, proving why kindness trumps all.

This year, GOtv is turning your festive lineup into a whirlwind of unforgettable stories that will leave you laughing, crying, and cheering—all in one sitting. Here’s a guide to some of the festive season movies that will make your holiday season not just merry but downright legendary.

Dr. Seuss’ The Cat in the Hat

“Chaos has never been this entertaining!”

What happens when a family’s holiday preparations meet a six-foot-tall cat with a penchant for mischief? Absolute pandemonium! From balancing teetering stacks of furniture to unleashing his Thing 1 and Thing 2 accomplices, the Cat pushes the boundaries of holiday cheer. Did you know this whimsical character has sparked debates about his “anarchic” influence for decades?

This Christmas, let the Cat in the Hat remind you that sometimes, a little chaos is needed to bring families together. Catch this iconic film on Thursday, December 19th, at 12:15 pm.

Matilda

“Who says kids can’t save Christmas?”

Matilda Wormwood may be small, but her courage and wit are larger than life. Remember the scene where she finally takes a stand against Miss Trunchbull? That’s not just a victory—it’s a moment that defines resilience. This heartwarming classic proves that even the tiniest among us can create the biggest miracles.

Gather the family and let Matilda inspire a holiday spirit filled with courage, imagination, and just a touch of telekinesis. This family favourite airs on Wednesday, December 25th, at 3:00 pm.

Babe & Babe: Pig in the City

“From farmyard hero to city superstar!”

What could be more festive than the tale of a pig who defies the odds? Babe’s journey to prove his worth is a story that echoes the true spirit of the holidays: kindness, determination, and belief in oneself. In Babe: Pig in the City, the stakes are raised as our lovable hero ventures into an urban jungle.

These tales are more than entertaining—they’re a gentle reminder to embrace every family member, even the most unlikely ones. Catch Babe on Monday, December 23rd, at 8:35 am, and don’t miss the sequel, Babe: Pig in the City, airing the next day, Tuesday, December 24th, at 9:00 am.

️ Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs

“Let it rain… cheeseburgers?”

What if your holiday feast literally fell from the sky? This imaginative adventure takes festive indulgence to a whole new level. Whether it’s giant pancakes or spaghetti tornadoes, Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs brings a colourful twist to the festive spirit. But beyond the fun, it’s a heartfelt story about family, innovation, and the courage to dream big. Join the adventure on Sunday, December 22nd, at 2:25 pm

Problem Child & Problem Child 2

“When holiday chaos meets Junior…”

Imagine this: one kid, two parents, and endless mayhem. Problem Child introduces us to Junior, the walking definition of “holiday surprises.” In the sequel, the laughs double as Junior’s antics escalate to new heights. It’s hilarious, nostalgic, and a perfect reminder that no family gathering is complete without a little drama. Watch the chaos unfold on Tuesday, December 24th, at 1:55 pm, followed by even more antics in Problem Child 2 at 3:25

Your Holiday Starts Here

This Christmas, GOtv isn’t just delivering entertainment; it’s creating moments you’ll treasure forever. From whimsical chaos to heartwarming tales, M-Net Movies 4 on Channel 3 has it all.

So grab a plate of Christmas jollof, huddle up with your loved ones, and let the holiday magic unfold on screen. And don’t forget to tune in to GOtv Channel 3 to catch these festive classics.

Don’t miss the chance to make your holiday season unforgettable. Subscribe, upgrade, or reconnect now through the MyGOtv App or dial *288#. This Christmas is not just about the presents—it’s about the stories that bring us together.

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All Set for Stanbic IBTC Pension Managers’ FUZE 3.0 Festival

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2024 FUZE Talent Show

By Modupe Gbadeyanka

Barring any unforeseen circumstances, all roads will lead to the Livespot Entertarium in Lekki, Lagos for the Stanbic IBTC Pension Managers’ FUZE Talent Show 3.0 on Saturday, December 21, 2024.

The festival is the biggest talent extravaganza in Nigeria. It is a platform that celebrates the country’s creativity and innovation.

According to the organisers, the programme promises to be a game-changing platform for unveiling Nigeria’s next generation of young talents.

The FUZE 3.0 festival features a prize pool of N50 million and an esteemed panel of judges, including industry icons like Funke Adepoju, Akinwande Akinsulire, Don Flexx, and Korede Bello.

With the theme Light it Up, this event is more than just a competition; it is a movement that celebrates Nigerian creativity in music, dance, fashion, and technological innovation.

“We are not merely hosting a talent show; we are creating a platform that amplifies the extraordinary potential of Nigerian youths in music, dance, fashion, and technology.

“The FUZE Festival is designed to showcase this potential, providing a vibrant space where young talent can shine, connect, and collaborate; ultimately fostering innovation and creativity within our communities.

“By celebrating diverse artistic expressions, the festival aims to inspire the next generation of leaders and change-makers in Nigeria,” the chief executive of Stanbic IBTC Pension Managers, Mr Olumide Oyetan, said.

Globally acclaimed Nigerian musical powerhouses that embody the excellence and vibrant energy of the Nigerian entertainment industry, Wande Coal, BNXN and Qing Madi, will be on stage to thrill guests and participants and electrify the atmosphere with their chart-topping hits.

This celebration is expected to birth new Nigerian talents with the potential to make a global impact after their grooming stages.

The event will include a unique holiday shopping festival. Premium Nigerian and international brands in fashion, beauty, personal care, tech, food, and beverage will display their quality goods and products for all holidaymakers and fun-seekers looking for amazing seasonal discounts on special gift items.

The exhibition area will be more than a shopping destination; it will be an immersive experience that complements the talent show’s vibrant atmosphere.

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Elevator Shoes Discreetly Improve Your Height

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Shirley - Elevator Loafers guido maggi

Shoes are a staple of the fashion industry. Hundreds of brands exist that make and produce a wealth of shoes each year. Shoes can be stylish, comfortable, and unique, but did you know that certain shoes offer some great benefits?

Elevator shoes provide a primary advantage that many men would enjoy—the appearance of being taller. And it’s not just the appearance of height for the sake of looking taller, the benefits from the height increase of elevator shoes go beyond mere looks.

The fashion industry is always innovating—as any good industry does. One of the most regarded crazes has been guido maggi elevator shoes. They’re different from regular sneakers or loafers. Elevator shoes have a specially designed insole—that is cleverly concealed—that provides a discreet increase in height.

The height increases range from 2.5-5 inches, depending on the brand and design. Elevator shoes are not only made in one style, many variations can accommodate many social gatherings and settings.

Elevator Shoes Provide A Height Increase

One of the main benefits of elevator shoes is that they discreetly improve your height. Since the lift is hidden inside the shoe, the shoes themselves do not attract unwanted attention. These are not high-heels or platform shoes—they’re a subtle design.

Not only do they offer a height increase, but elevator shoes can also improve your stride while providing extra support. The world average height for a man is 5ft 10.5 in, while the average female height is 5ft 5 in. Some might want a little extra help to reach or surpass the average.

Some people might indeed want only a minor height increase—nothing too obvious and elevator shoes can provide that while also offering a boost of confidence.

As I said before, elevator shoes can also improve your posture. Proper posture will see your shoulders square and a more defined, straightened walking gait. The added height could also help you maintain eye contact more easily and pay closer attention to facial cues and expressions, thus improving the flow of your conversations.

Elevator Shoes Offer Comfort

Comfort is one of the main reasons people buy and wear any type of clothing. You might think that elevator shoes would be uncomfortable or that they could cause foot pain or soreness, however, neither of those is true. One of the primary goals for the design of elevator shoes was to make movements like running, walking, and hiking as easy as can be while wearing them.

In contrast, high heels can be excruciatingly painful. They offer the same height increase benefit as elevator shoes but rarely offer the same subtle design or comfort. Often, elevator shoes contain extra padding in the soles to reduce the impact on your feet when walking, jogging, or running.

As with nearly any new pair of shoes, you will need a short period to ‘break them in’ but it’s not more strenuous than any other type of shoes.

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